Medications for Sinusitis

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

Prescription Medications

Antibiotics

In most cases, acute sinusitis will get better without the use of antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if you have specific symptoms. It is important to take all antibiotics as prescribed, even when you are feeling better.

Beta-lactams

Common beta-lactams that may be used to treat bacterial sinusitis include:

Decreased effectiveness of oral contraceptives—talk with your doctor about another form of contraception while you are taking these medications

Fluoroquinolones

Common fluoroquinolones that may be used to treat bacterial sinusitis include:

Levofloxacin

Moxifloxacin

If you are taking certain antacids or sucralfate, this may decrease the levels of antibiotic. Talk to your doctor about ways to avoid this interaction.

Possible side effects include:

Increased sensitivity to sunlight

Lightheadedness

Inflamed, torn tendons

Nausea

Diarrhea

Allergic reactions, such as rash, itchy skin, difficulty breathing

Tetracyclines

Doxycycline is a common tetracycline that can be used to treat acute bacterial sinusitis.

Always take these medications with a full glass of water. The use of tetracyclines during pregnancy, and for children 8 years of age or less, are not recommended.

Possible side effects include:

Stomach cramps, burning

Diarrhea

Nausea, vomiting

Tooth discoloration in children, including those whose mothers took tetracycline while pregnant

Increased sun sensitivity

Lightheadedness

Decreased effectiveness of oral contraceptives—talk with your doctor about another form of contraception while you are taking these medications

Other Prescription Medications

Nasal Corticosteroids

Common names include:

Beclomethasone

Budesonide

Dexamethasone

Flunisolide

Fluticasone

Mometasone

Triamcinolone

Nasal corticosteroids are inhaled directly into your nose through a special inhaler. These drugs may help relieve congestion by decreasing swelling in the lining of the nose. It will likely take a few days of using nasal corticosteroids before you notice an effect; they must be used daily to sustain this effect. These drugs are often used with antibiotics.

If any of the following occurs while you are taking a nasal corticosteroid, call your doctor:

Severe coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing

Painful sores or white or red patches inside your mouth or nose

Swelling of the tongue or throat

Trouble swallowing

Continuous stinging or burning feeling in your nose

Over-the-Counter Medications

Acetaminophen

Common brand names include:

Tylenol

Acetaminophen can be helpful in relieving some of the pain and discomfort associated with sinusitis. It’s also safe to give to children. Do not take a larger dose than is recommended by your doctor. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while you are taking acetaminophen.

Ibuprofen

Common brand names include:

Motrin

Advil

Ibuprofen can also help relieve some of the pain associated with sinusitis. Because some people find ibuprofen to be very hard on the stomach, you should take this medication with food. Drinking alcoholic beverages while you are taking ibuprofen can increase your risk of stomach irritation.

On rare occasions, people have allergic reactions to ibuprofen. If you notice a new skin rash, difficulty breathing, or puffiness or swelling in your face or around your eyes, stop taking ibuprofen and immediately contact your doctor.

Decongestants

Decongestants have been popular choices in the past for acute sinusitis. However, certain professional medical groups such as the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA), no longer recommend these medications. These recommendations are based the lack of evidence that they are helpful.

Talk to your doctor about medications that are safe for you.

Special Considerations

Whenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:

Take your medications as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Discuss them with your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medication.

Plan ahead for refills if you need them.

Do not share your prescription medication with anyone.

Drugs can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor if you are taking more than one drug, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.